“Everyone may not be good, but there’s always something good in everyone. Never judge anyone shortly because every saint has a past and every sinner has a future,” declared Oscar Wilde. Anne Frank poignantly wrote, “In spite of everything, I still believe that people are really good at heart.” These profound insights remind us that even when the veneer of society seems fractured by discord, a core of humanity remains intact within every individual. Today, let’s reflect on the transformative power of seeking the inherent value in those around us to foster a more harmonious existence.
Do you know that the lens through which we view humanity dictates the very reality we inhabit and the quality of the communities we build? While it is undeniably easy to become disillusioned by the headlines of atrocity or the personal stings of insincerity and betrayal, fixating solely on the “sinister” traits of others creates a self-fulfilling prophecy of cynicism. Every person, regardless of their past missteps or current disposition, carries a “treasure” of unique experiences, latent talents, and untapped potential that can be harnessed for the greater good. By shifting our perspective from a deficit-based model – where we tally up weaknesses and untrustworthiness – to an asset-based model, we unlock the door to genuine innovation and social cohesion. This is not about naivety or ignoring the harm people can cause; rather, it is a strategic and moral choice to prioritise the “precious” elements within the human spirit. When we acknowledge that though everyone may not be consistently good, there is undeniable good in everyone, we begin to see our colleagues, neighbours, and even strangers as potential partners in progress rather than obstacles to be avoided or judged.
So, enhance your capacity to look beyond the superficial flaws in others and actively hunt for the strengths that lie beneath their often-guarded exteriors. In your professional teams and local societies, make a committed effort to mentor the misunderstood and provide a platform for the quiet voices, as these are often where the most significant “treasures” are hidden. Instead of reacting to a person’s insincerity with reciprocal coldness, challenge yourself to identify the positive attributes they possess and use that as a bridge to build a more functional, honest relationship. By consciously choosing to explore the strengths of others, you create an environment where people feel safe enough to shed their “bad” tendencies and lead with their best selves. This proactive engagement is the cornerstone of building resilient communities; it turns a group of flawed individuals into a powerful, collective force capable of overcoming the very challenges that once seemed insurmountable. The act of “harnessing” these internal treasures requires patience and a relentless belief in human redemption, yet the reward is a world where every day offers a new opportunity to turn a difficult encounter into a constructive alliance.
As you step out each day, carry the unwavering conviction that every person you encounter possesses a spark of light capable of illuminating a dark corner of the world. By choosing to nurture the strengths in others rather than dwelling on their frailty, you become a catalyst for the “better” world we all desperately seek. Your commitment to finding the gold amidst the dross will not only transform your relationships but will also ensure that you extract the absolute best from every single day of your life.
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Esang Esitikot is a professor of occupational health and safety, a COREN-registered chemical engineer, public affairs analyst, UN Ambassador for Peace, certified management consultant, World Safety Organization Ambassador, recognized Environmental Ambassador, marriage counsellor, youth mentor, reviewer for international research journals and volunteer lecturer at the Institute of Health, Safety, Security and Environment, University of Uyo. He is a manager in the oil and gas industry and was recognized by Highstone Global University, USA as the occupational health and safety personality of 2024. He can be contacted via 08035103559 (Whatsapp only) or email (esitikot@gmail.com).
